In a moment of shared commitment to economic progress, Aaron S. Demerson, President and CEO of the Texas Economic Development Corporation, receives a ceremonial check from Adam Gonzalez, CEO of COSTEP, joined by former McAllen Mayor Jim Darling and former McAllen EDC President Keith Patridge. This grant marks the third phase of a collaborative effort to amplify Texas’ domestic and international economic opportunities. The presentation at the CEED building in Mission, TX, signals a successful start to the new year with optimism for regional and statewide development. Photo by Roberto Hugo González
Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González
MISSION, Texas – January 7, 2025 — In a strong start to the new year, the COSTEP, Council for South Texas Economic Progress presented a $100,000 grant to the Texas Economic Development Corporation. The funding will support efforts to promote economic opportunities in the region and market Texas domestically and internationally. Aaron S. Demerson, President and CEO of the Texas Economic Development Corporation, traveled from Austin to personally receive the funds. The ceremonial check presentation occurred at the CEED building, with Adam Gonzalez, CEO of COSTEP, and other board members proudly delivering the grant.
“This investment by COSTEP showcases their ongoing commitment to not just the Rio South Texas region but the entire state,” Demerson said. “It’s a powerful step toward marketing the great state of Texas both domestically and internationally, fostering partnerships that make a tangible difference.”
The grant builds on a three-year partnership between COSTEP and the Texas Economic Development Corporation. The funds will enable participation in international trade missions and other marketing initiatives. Demerson emphasized the importance of local collaboration, noting that COSTEP joined a Texas delegation to India last year to showcase the state’s business opportunities.
“Having regional partners like COSTEP alongside us on these international missions allows Texas to market itself as a prime location for investment,” Demerson explained. “At the state level, we highlight Texas’ strengths, but at the local level, organizations like COSTEP bring a more targeted, regional appeal.”
These missions, often led by the Texas governor and the Secretary of State, aim to attract global businesses to Texas while strengthening the state’s global economic network.
The $100,000 grant represents the third stage of COSTEP’s multi-year financial commitment. The first installment, which occurred approximately two years ago, was larger and helped lay the groundwork for the ongoing collaboration.
“COSTEP’s approach is meticulous,” Demerson noted. “They don’t just hand over funding; they hold us accountable to prove that their investment delivers tangible results. Today’s grant is proof of the success of our partnership and their satisfaction with the progress we’ve made.”
COSTEP’s influence extends beyond its financial contribution. Its board, comprised of regional leaders, is deeply invested in Rio South Texas’s success. Notably, David Deanda, President and CEO of Lone Star National Bank and Vice Chair of the Texas Economic Development Corporation board, has played a pivotal role in bridging regional and statewide economic efforts.
“Yes, several opportunities exist to promote Texas through our international missions. These missions are typically led by the governor of Texas and the Secretary of State, providing high-level visibility for our state. Adriana Cruz, who heads the Governor’s Economic Development and Tourism Team, also plays a key role in these efforts.
During these missions, we meet with business leaders and officials in various countries and states to showcase Texas as an ideal destination for investment. Having an organization like COSTEP at the table is crucial. At the state level, we can discuss Texas as a whole, but COSTEP provides a vital local perspective, ensuring that specific regions, like Rio South Texas, are highlighted.
Beyond international missions, there are also events like Formula One, where we host site consultants and other key stakeholders. While they might have a general awareness of Texas, they need to learn about specific local communities. COSTEP’s involvement helps bridge that gap, allowing us to make a more significant impact at both the state and regional levels.”
“Hitting the ground running at the start of 2025 with this kind of support is invaluable,” Demerson said. “We’re excited to continue working with COSTEP and other regional partners to keep Texas at the forefront of economic development.”
COSTEP’s efforts represent a long-term vision for economic progress in Rio South Texas and beyond. As the partnership with the Texas Economic Development Corporation deepens, the region stands poised to attract new businesses and investments, enhancing its standing as a key contributor to Texas’ economic growth.
Demerson concluded by extending gratitude to COSTEP and its board, saying, “We don’t take these relationships for granted. Partnerships like these are what make Texas a leader in economic opportunity.”
As the check presentation ended, there was a shared optimism that the collaboration would continue to drive transformative progress for Rio South Texas and the state.
“COSTEP’s commitment ensures that Rio South Texas continues to play a critical role in Texas’ broader economic narrative,” said Demerson. “They’re not just investing funds—they’re fostering relationships that enable progress.”
